INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR THE PRESERVATION OF THE OZONE LAYER

COUNTRY ACTIVITIES

The Secretary General's Message on the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer - 16 September 2012 - A quarter-century ago, one of the greatest challenges facing humanity – the thinning of the ozone layer that protects life on Earth from the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun – led to what is arguably the best example yet of global cooperation on an environmental issue. The Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer is not merely a success in meeting its immediate objectives, it offers substantive lessons and inspiration in addressing other global challenges and turning them into opportunities for common progress. Read more - A | C | E | F | R | S

While the international community is celebrating this year, the 25th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, the world’s most successful environmental agreement, related environmental issues are gaining redoubled importance.

Countries have started their phase-out of Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and the obstacles in meeting the Montreal Protocol 2013 freeze and the 2015 reduction targets of 10 % can be many. It includes, among others, the choice of technology replacement to protect both the ozone layer and the climate. Read more about video...

UNEP- West Asia Celebration of the 25th Anniversary of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer highlights the Active Role of the Region in the Outstanding Success of the Protocol. Regional Office for West Asia-Bahrain- 15 September 2012 - Under the theme “Protecting our atmosphere for generations to come” thousands of people around the globe celebrate the 25th anniversary of the signing of the “Montreal Protocol”; the world’s most successful environmental agreement and the most widely ratified treaty in the United Nations history. Read more A | E

Africa: UNEP hails Africa's role in reversing depletion of ozone layer - Arusha, Tanzania - The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) Thursday paid tribute to all African countries for their contribution to the success of the Montreal Protocol adopted in 1987 to phase out substances that deplete the ozone layer. “All African countries have complied with the phase-out of ozone-depleting substances to date and this nothing short of phenomenal,” Gilbert Bankobeza, Chief of Legal Affairs and Compliance at UNEP’s Ozone secretariat, told African delegates and other environmental stakeholders gathered in Arusha, Tanzania, for the 14th regular session of the African Ministerial Conference on Environment (AMCEN). Read more...

25th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol marked in Vienna: VIENNA, 10 September 2012 – The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) marked today the 25th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol and the 20th anniversary of UNIDO as an implementing agency of this Protocol. The Montreal Protocol is a treaty opened for signature in 1987 which aims to restore and protect the ozone layer by phasing-out various substances known to deplete it.

During the ceremony, Marco Gonzalez, the Executive Secretary of the Ozone Secretariat, United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), said that the Montreal Protocol was a clear example of how a political commitment can address global challenges. He added that “UNIDO has been a successful implementing agency” and has carried out “innovative, ground-breaking work in many ways.” Read more...

Funding success - the Multilateral Fund celebrates 25 years of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer Protocol - For the past 25 years Parties to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer have committed to reduce their levels of production and consumption of chemicals that harm the ozone layer according to an agreed schedule. The Montreal Protocol, cited as the most successful environmental agreement, has achieved the global phase-out of CFCs and other ozone depleting substances (ODS) and profoundly influenced other environmental negotiations over the years. One of the many reasons for its success is the full participation and compliance with the Montreal Protocol by developing country Parties. Read more

A treaty that inspires Global Action - On the 25th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol, the World Bank and the US EPA come together to celebrate its success and share lessons for future challenges. It was a day to pause and celebrate an environmental success story. In the 1980s, the thinning ozone layer was one of the biggest environmental challenges facing humanity. Exactly 25 years ago, in a massive show of global cooperation, the world ratified the Montreal Protocol. According to scientists, the ozone layer that protects the earth from the sun’s most harmful ultraviolet rays is on its way to recovery. Read more...

Sunday 16 September is International Ozone Day and also marks the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Montreal Protocol on protecting the ozone layer. To mark the occasion Connie Hedegaard made the following statement:
"The Montreal Protocol has achieved a lot. The atmospheric concentrations of the man-made chemicals which attack the ozone layer most aggressively are now falling. This is thanks to the phase-out of their production and consumption which is under way. Much remains to be done, but scientific evidence shows the ozone layer should recover fully by the second half of this century provided the Protocol continues to be applied. Read more...

International Ozone Day: 'Protecting our Atmosphere for Generations to Come.'
Antarctic Ozone Recovery will be gradual - hole currently 19 million km2

GENEVA, 14 September 2012 (WMO) - An international agreement to phase out chemicals which attack the Earth’s vital ozone shield celebrates its 25th anniversary as a showcase for successful global environmental cooperation, “protecting our atmosphere for generations to come.”

The Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, which was signed 16 September 1987, has prevented the destruction of the ozone layer which protects Earth from the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun. Read more... | Arabic | Chinese | French | Russian

GEF CEO Naoko Ishii Hails 25th Anniversary of Montreal Protocol - Strong financial support from Global Environment Facility helped make Protocol one of world’s most successful environmental pacts – delivering significant reductions in dangerous chemicals. - WASHINGTON, September 16, 2012 – The 25th anniversary of a landmark international agreement to protect the earth’s ozone layer demonstrates the global benefits that can flow from concerted effort and cooperation to address environmental threats, the head of the Global Environment Facility said today. Read more...

The National Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA) of Afghanistan in collaboration with Aria TV (an exclusive TV channel for children and teenagers in Afghanistan), is organizing an event which will be attended by NEPA’s authorities, ODS importers, industry, the Ministry of Commerce, the RAC sector, customs and other key stakeholders. School children will perform a drama and songs on ozone layer protection. A children’s painting competition was organized and the award for the best painting will be presented at this event.

ALBANIA

The National Ozone Unit in Albania organized the following activities for International Ozone Day and the 25th Anniversary of the Montreal Protocol:

- Awareness raising in the elementary school "Albanet" about the 25th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol including discussions and display of videos.

- The "Harry Fultz" Institute which provides 4-year training for refrigeration technicians organised a competition related to the Montreal Protocol and handed over certificates and prices to the 3 winners. Read more...

International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer: ...To mark the date in Angola, awareness workshops and information meetings are taking place in various provinces of the country, focusing on the Vienna Convention and the Montreal Protocol.

Angola celebrates the day for the eighth time since the signing of the Montreal Protocol, which is consolidated with the most efficient multilateral agreements established by the United Nations system.According a source from the National Ozone Unit, under the Ministry of Environment, Angola ratified the Vienna Convention and the Montreal Protocol on 18 June 1998 and became a party since May 17, 2000, to participate in the defense of the Ozone Layer.As part of the commitments made by the country, officials and technicians of the National Unit of the Ozone Layer and some provincial departments in the same sector perform various activities in support of the “September 16″.The aim is to awaken the society about the risks that this portion of the atmosphere can cause in the case of its destruction , with the production and emission of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and other gases. Read more...

A survey, "Do you know the Ozone Layer?" with the participation of children from the Environmental club "Molorak" took place on the centrally located Northern Avenue in Yerevan. About 80% of the respondents were aware about the ozone layer. Blue balloons resembling ozone molecules with the new website address www.armozone.am were distributed among the respondents. At the end 100 blue balloons were let floating in the air by the children chanting the slogan "Protecting our atmosphere for generations to come." Read more...

AUSTRALIA

Australia celebrated the 25th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol with two key events. First was a public science lecture at the Academy of Science Shine Dome on the success and benefits of the Montreal Protocol. Speakers were Dr Paul Fraser, Dr Greg Bodeker and Ms Julie Arblaster. Second was a ceremony at Parliament House where seven Australians were recognised for their outstanding contributions to ozone layer protection. In addition, the Director of the UN Information Centre in Australia presented the Australian Government with a plaque recognising Australia’s contribution to ozone layer protection and a message from the Prime Minister of Australia was read. Read more....

BANGLADESH

President, PM for protecting ozone level - DHAKA, Sept 15 (BSS) - President Zillur Rahman and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today urged all to create awareness for protecting ozone level and making commitment to the new generation to save the environment.

On the eve of World Ozone Day 2012, both the President and Prime Minister gave separate messages wishing success of the day, to be observed in the country as elsewhere in the world. In the message, the President observed that ozone level is now under threat due to human induced different natural disasters, saying the role of ozonosphere is indispensable to keep the world safe from awful ray of the sun. Read more...

BARBADOS

Minister Lowe recognises milestones in compliance - MINISTER of Environment and Drainage Dr. Denis Lowe has outlined a number of Barbados’ milestones in achieving and maintaining compliance obligations and phase-out targets since acceding to the Montreal Protocol.

Speaking at media briefing recently at the Ministry of Environment and Drainage’s headquarters, Minister Denis Lowe, along with Rickardo Ward of the National Ozone Unit, outlined some of the work carried out and the challenges that the country will encounter going forward. Read more...

BHUTAN

Preserving human shield that science calls Ozonelayer - Sept 14 2012 - Bhutan observed the 25th Anniversary of the Montreal Protocol. Her Majesty the Gyaltsuen, who is also the country’s ozone ambassador, graced the occasion by voicing the need to preserve a human shield that science call as Ozone layer.

Bhutan is one of the active and committed members of the Montreal Protocol, who now enjoy the patronage of Her Majesty the Gyaltsuen. Read more..

BRUNEI

Brunei will mark Montreal Protocol with Ozone Run - THE Department of Environment, Park and Recreation (JASTRE) in collaboration with relevant agencies will organise a running event called 'The Ozone Run'on September 16, 2012 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol and the World Ozone Day. Read more

CAMBODIA

The first national celebration of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer in Southeast Asia was held at the historical World Heritage Site Angkor Wat – a brilliantly built structure that overcame the technical difficulties of the 12th Century – which may also symbolize the obstacles and achievements the world has gone through since the Montreal Protocol was signed 25 years ago. Read more...

CAMEROON

Preserve Ozone Layer today for Future Generations - Cameroon joined the rest of the international community yesterday September 17 to observe the 18th edition of the International Day for the preservation of the ozone layer.

Observed on the theme, "Protecting our atmosphere for generations to come," commemorative activities which took place at the Mvog Betsi Zoological Garden were however belated given that the day fell on September 16 which was a Sunday and so the Ministry of the Environment, Protection of Nature and Sustainable Development pushed the activities a day further. This year's commemoration coincided with the 25th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol on substances that deplete the ozone layer. Read more...

CANADA

Statement - Canada celebrates 25 years of success with Montreal Protocol - OTTAWA, Sept. 14, 2012 /CNW/ - Canada's Minister of the Environment, the Honourable Peter Kent, issued the following statement on the 25th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer.

"Twenty-five years ago, the world gathered in Montreal to take on a problem endangering the safety of our families, and the state of our planet - the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances.

"With Canada at the forefront, both then and now, this meeting led to the creation of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. Celebrating its 25th anniversary on Sunday, September 16, 2012, it is clear that this treaty is one of the best that has ever been written. One hundred and ninety-seven countries have now signed onto the Montreal Protocol. Read more...

CHINA

2012 International Ozone Day: Chinese Youth Relay on Ozone Protection -16 September 2012, Beijing/Nairobi – The Ministry of Environmental Protection of China initiated “China Youth to Repair the Sky” on 2012 International Ozone Layer Protection Day to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. Mr. Marco Gonzalez, Executive Secretary of the UNEP Ozone Secretariat and Zhang Lijun, Vice Minister of China Ministry of Environmental Protection attended the activities. Read more... | Chinese

CROATIA

In commemoration of International Ozone Day and the 25th Anniversary of the Montreal Protocol, the Ministry of Environment and Nature Protection organised various events including a visit to a Primary school by the Minister of Environmental and Nature Protection, Minister of Education and representatives of City of Zagreb.

To raise awareness, the Ministry of Environmental and Nature Protection,have translated the Ozzy Ozone board game in Croatian. Click here to view game

CUBA

Cuba Marks 25th Anniversary of the Montreal Protocol - HAVANA, Cuba, Sept 5 (ACN) Cuba joined world commemorations for the 25th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, considered the most successful and spread international treaty in the environment field promoted by the United Nations.

Workshops, book presentations, exhibits and other activities related to the protection of the ozone layer and the elimination of greenhouse effect substances are taking place in different Cuban regions, said the director of the Cuban Technical Ozone Office (OTOZ) Nelson Espinosa, cited by PL news agency. Read more...

CZECH REPUBLIC

To commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the Montreal Protocol, the Ministry of Environment, Czech Republic organised a national art contest related to ozone layer protection.

DEMOCRATIC PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF KOREA

To commemorate International Ozone Day, the National Ozone Unit (NOU), Democratic People’s Republic of Korea will organize an event with 80 participants from NCCE, MoLEP, the National Ozone Unit, major stakeholders, civil organizations, institutions, universities and mass media agencies.

Other activities will include a National workshop, children’s drawing contest, TV symposium, articles in the national newspapers and a special ozone newsletter. Read more...

EGYPT

The Ministry of State for Environmental Affairs, through the Ozone Unit organized a ceremony to mark the 25th Anniversary of the Montreal Protocol and the 2012 International Day for the preservation of the Ozone Layer. The theme for this year’s celebration is “Protecting our Atmosphere for Generations to Come”. The international celebration will be held on September 16th 2012. Read more...

ETHIOPIA

EPEE supports International Ozone Day and the 25th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol - The European Partnership for Energy and the Environment (EPEE) supports International Ozone Day on Sunday 16 September. This particular day marks the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Montreal Protocol on protecting the ozone layer, which banned ozone depleting substances (ODS) that created the ozone hole through their hazardous impact on our ozone layer. Read more...

FEDERATED STATES OF MICRONESIA

KOLONIA, Pohnpei (FSM Government) — September 16 is International Day for Preservation of the Ozone Layer in a year that marks the 25th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. Given the protocol’s success in achieving reductions that will protect the atmosphere for generations to come, there is a lot to celebrate, FSM officials said.

The Montreal Protocol is not only the most successful environmental treaty, it is also the most successful climate change treaty, since it phases out chemicals that not only harm the ozone layer, but also contribute to global warming. But the Montreal Protocol’s work is not done. Hydrofluorocarbons, or HFCs, are unfortunately being used as substitutes for ozone depleting substances. HFCs do not destroy the ozone layer but they are super greenhouse gases. Read more...

FIJI

The Department of Environment will commemorate the silver jubilee for the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer on September 21 this year.

The day is usually observed worldwide on September 16th and this year’s international theme is “Protecting our atmosphere for generations to come”.

Hailed as the most successful treaty in UN history - for achieving universal ratification and meeting its targets ahead of schedule, the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer will celebrate its 25th anniversary this year.

In Fiji, as part of the celebrations, the Department of Environment under the Ministry of Local Government, Urban Development, Housing and Environment will be marking this very important day on the 21st of September, 2012. Read more...

GAMBIA

Forestry Minister on World Ozone Day - September 16 was observed as World Ozone Day and is celebrated by all the parties that have ratified the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer.

To mark the day, the Minister of Forestry and the Environment, Hon. Fatou Gaye, has issued a statement.

According to her, this year’s World Ozone Day marks the 25th celebration (Silver Jubilee), of the Montreal Protocol making the celebration a special one. Read more...

GERMANY

Refrigerants Naturally! On the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol, Refrigerants, Naturally! calls on the international community to respond to climate change and start phasing out HFCs.

The 25th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol is an occasion to acknowledge the unprecedented collective effort of the international community to safeguard our Earth’s protective ozone layer.

The partner companies of Refrigerants, Naturally! commend the Parties to the Montreal Protocol for leading the global effort to reduce and phase out ozone-depleting substances, many of which are also powerful greenhouse gases. The partner companies willingly participated in the international effort, transitioning to new technologies that protect the ozone layer. Read more...

GHANA

Ghana set to meet refrigeration "phase-out under Montreal Protocol - Ghana will impose a blanket ban on the importation of used refrigeration equipment on January 1 next year.

According to Environment and Science Minister Sherry Ayittey, the move would show Ghana's commitment to achieve the "phase-out" targets in line with the Montreal Protocol, under which the consumption and production of substances that deplete the ozone layer would be banned by 2013.
In a statement on the 25th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol on Thursday, the minister said the ban was necessary to ensure Ghana's successes in reducing the consumption of chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) in refrigeration. Read more...

GUYANA

THE INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR THE PRESERVATION OF THE OZONE LAYER - 16 September 2012 6 6 Message from Honourable Dr. Leslie Ramsammy- Minister of Agriculture - The United Nations' (UN) International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer is celebrated on September 16 every year. This event commemorates the date of the signing of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer in 1987. The Protocol is an international agreement under which countries worldwide are committed to phasing-out Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS), and to replacing these damaging chemicals with ozone-friendly substances and products. During the 1970s, scientists discovered evidence of a serious threat to the ozone layer, which provided the impetus for the development of the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer and, the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. Today marks the 25th anniversary celebrations and the theme for this year is "Protecting our Atmosphere for Generations to Come"

But why is the ozone so important to us? Well, for starters, ozone is a gas that exists naturally in our atmosphere, primarily in a region called the “ozone layer”. It plays a vital role in shielding all life on earth from the sun’s harmful ultra-violet radiation. Less ozone means less protection. Harmful UV radiation affects human health; plant physiology and development; marine ecosystems; biogeochemical cycles and materials, to name a few. Humans are affected through increasing incidences of eye-cataracts, non-melanoma skin cancers, damage to genetic DNA and suppression of the efficiency of the immune system. Read more...

INDIA

India celebrated the 25th Anniversary of the Montreal Protocol and Internation Ozone Day at the Indian Habitat Centre, New Delhi on 13th September 2012. School children's paintings and ozone slogans were displayed. An impressive work by our future generation. View paintings

Ozone Day: When rich and poor nations unite to save life on Earth, 15 Sept 2012 - New Delhi: The government on Saturday termed the Montreal Protocol as the "most successful" treaty on ozone layer protection which could serve as a model for cooperation on issues related to climate change.

Environment Ministry Secretary T Chatterjee said the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer has been recognised as the most successful international environment treaty as the developed nations provided "some sort of the assistance to the developing and emerging countries" to deal with the issue. Read more...

IRAN

On the occasion of the International Ozone Day and the 25th Anniversary of the Montreal Protocol, the Iranian NOU organized ceremonies, workshops, interviews and public awareness activities on 16 September 2012. A brief description of the activities is as follows:

The celebration ceremony of the 25th Anniversary of the Montreal Protocol & International Ozone Day was held on 16 September 2012 at the International Conference Hall, Pardisan Park-Department of Environment, Tehran.

At this ceremony, the Iranian authorities from DoE (Department of the Environment), manufacturers of the completed projects under the Montreal Protocol, representatives of the National Ozone Committee from different ministries and organizations as well as the Deputy Resident Representative of UN-Mr. Murali- and the Resident Representative of UNIDO-Mr. Amadeo- in Iran, attended the Ceremony. Read more...

JAMAICA

September 16 is International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer. The day commemorates the signing of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. The Protocol is an environmentally legally binding agreement to reduce depletion of the earth’s protective ozone layer through phase-out of the use of ozone depleting substances (ODS).

Jamaica, through the National Environment and Planning Agency continues to successfully implement programmes towards meeting obligations under the Montreal Protocol.

This year marks the twenty fifth anniversary of the signing of the Montreal Protocol which has been signed by 197 countries. It is the only environmental agreement to have achieved universal ratification. Approximately 98% of the ODS regulated by the Protocol are no longer produced and imported by countries. Read more...

KENYA

On 16 September 1987, twenty four Parties signed the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. In 1998, in recognition of the Protocol’s unique accomplishments, the General Asembly in its Resolution 49/114 named 16 September as the International day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer. Since that time, the Parties have used this day to celebrate the signing of the Montreal Protocol, and the significant environmental and health benefits that this amazing treaty has yielded.

The Minister for Environment and Mineral Resources Hon. Chirau A Mwakwere EGH,FCILT, MP and Permanent Secretary Mr. Ali D. Mohamed have both sent out Statements detailing the efforts the government through the ministry had undertaken to address the issue. Read more...

KUWAIT

American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE), Kuwait Chapter as a part of continuous efforts in its professional journey, commemorated World Ozone day on 16th September 2012 at Hotel Safir, Fintas. Mr. Sampath Reddy, Secretary of ASSE Kuwait chapter, in his opening remarks briefed on the importance of the day. Mr. N. Vasudevan, President, ASSE Kuwait chapter & Mr. Fadhel Al Ali, Chairman , ASSE Kuwait Chapter addressed the gathering.

During the key note presentation, Mr. Sulaiman Ameer, delivered the presentation on “Roles and Activities of Kuwait National Ozone Unit - Environment Public Authority in Ozone Layer Protection" Read more...

KYRGYZSTAN

The Ozone Centre in Kyrgyzstan organised a number of activities in commemoration of International Ozone Day and the 25th Anniversary of the Montreal Protocol.

1. An advertising publication “25 years of the Montreal Protocol” devoted to International day of ozone layer protection was published in the September issue of the Republican newspaper “Vitrina” (20 000 copies).
2. A Special edition of the newspaper “Asyl Jer” devoted to 16th September – International day of ozone layer protection and the Montreal Protocol’s 25th anniversary (2 000 copies).
3. A Special 2-pages DPS of the newspaper “Jer Ene” devoted to 16th September – International day of ozone layer protection and the Montreal Protocol’s 25th anniversary (4 000 copies). Read more...

LIBERIA

Ozone Spared By 98% -Liberia Joins 25th Anniversary Celebration: The entire world panicked when it was discovered several decades ago that the celestial shield that protects the human race from the flaming radiation of the sun, the Ozone Layer, was punctured by chemicals produced from earth and that the risk if allowed to increase consumed mankind in no time. That threat forced the global community to commit the practical actions in order to save the protectively shield from further ruination. This September the world will be celebrating achievements made and renewing commitments to heal the Ozone Layer once and for all. Read more...

MALAYSIA

George Town: The Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) expect more than 1,500 cycling enthusiasts to join the 2012 Cycling Campaign on Sept 15 to held at Queensbay Mall, Bayan Baru in conjunction with World Ozone Day 2012 on Sept 16, said its president, S.M. Mohamed Idris. Read more...

MALDIVES

President and First Lady attend Ozone Day functions, 17 Sept 2012 - President Dr Mohamed Waheed and First Lady Madam Ilham Hussain attended the function held this afternoon to commemorate this year’s Ozone Day.The event which was held at the Republic Square this afternoon began with 25 school children swimming from the island of Funadhoo to the Official Jetty of Male’. Read more...

Malé, 16 Sept 2012 - Today is World Ozone Day. Activities to mark the 25th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer were held in Male’ yesterday.

A children’s evening was celebrated in Republic Square, and 25 students selected by the Swimming Association of Maldives swam from Male’ Atoll Funadhoo to Male’ carrying balloons with the Ozone Day theme. Read more...

MICRONESIA, FEDERATED STATES OF

KOLONIA, Pohnpei (FSM Government), 14 Sept 2012 — September 16 is International Day for Preservation of the Ozone Layer in a year that marks the 25th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. Given the protocol’s success in achieving reductions that will protect the atmosphere for generations to come, there is a lot to celebrate, FSM officials said. Read more...

MOLDOVA

Activities undertaken by the Republic of Moldova to celebrate International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer (16 September, 2012)

1). Radio transmission (45 min) in the format “ECO-TERRA”, under the topic “25 years of the Montreal Protocol” was broadcasted on 17 September, 2012). The Minister of Environment gave a short message at the beginning of radio transmission;

2). An Ecological hour (45 min) - “Montreal Protocol – 25 years“ was organized by the professors (biology and geography) in primary and high schools of the Republic on 17 September, 2012. Read more...

MONGOLIA

The International Ozone Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer was celebrated with participation of multi-stakeholders in Mongolia. During the celebration of the 25th Anniversary of the Montreal Protocol and International Ozone Day, several events were organized with the collaboration of the Mongolian Refrigeration Association (MRA) and other main multipliers such as the media. Read more...

The National Ozone Authority of Mongolia also printed two beautiful posters for Ozone Day and the 25th Anniversary of the Montreal Protocol.

MONTENEGRO

For the occasion of Ozone Day, 16 September 2012, Environmental Protection Agency/NOU in the period 18-22 September held the educational activities in the primary school, 'Gornja Zeta - regional department Botun', Podgorica; kindergarten 'Djecija radost', Tuzi, Podgorica; and Secondary school, Niksic.

On 22 September in the shopping mall 'Delta City' in Podgorica, a traditional event was organised for the kids, 'Sun Day.' The EPA/NOU and the NVO Ozone staged a creative workshop on Ozzy Ozone in which the youngest citizens and their parents had the ability to learn useful things about the ozone layer. Read more...

NAMIBIA

International Ozone day celebrated at the coast -

SWAKOPMUND: The 25th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol on the International Ozone Day was celebrated here on Saturday under the theme ‘Protecting our atmosphere for generations to come’.

The protocol was signed in 1987, and aims at phasing out both production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances from member countries, of which Namibia is one.

Governor of the Erongo Region, Cleophas Mutjavikua, indicated in a speech read on his behalf by his personal advisor, Ellison Hijarunguru, on Saturday that the protocol is a true reflection of what has been done so far to ensure that future generations live in a healthy environment. Read more...

NEPAL

Ozone Day was celebrated with much enthusiasm on 16th September 2012 in Kathmandu. Various activities were organized by the Nepal Bureau of Standards and Metrology (NBSM). The first activity was a rally around business and residential areas of Kathmandu which was attended by staff members of NBSM as well as various other organizations like Nepal Refrigeration and Electro Mechanical Association (NREMA), Rural Development and Environment Protection Council etc. Participants from various schools and colleges were also present at the rally. The procession was led by a traditional Nepali musical band called Dhimé Baja and the participants carried various banners and signs bearing messages about Ozone Day and general awareness about the protection of the ozone layer. Read more...

NEW ZEALAND

Minister praises 25 years of global action to fix ozone hole - Environment Minister Amy Adams has praised the success of global action to tackle the ozone hole, which scientists say has stopped increasing and is on its way to recovery.

Today is the 25th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol, the global agreement to phase out the production and use of substances which have been depleting the ozone layer.

“The ozone layer is now on track to full recovery within this century, thanks to effective global action to reduce the use of ozone-depleting substances in everyday products such as air conditioners, refrigerators, foams, and pesticides,” Ms Adams says. Read more...

NIGERIA

THE hole in the ozone layer, the earth’s protective shield against ultraviolet rays, is expected to be smaller this year over the Antarctic than last, showing how a ban on harmful substances has stopped its depletion, the United Nations said.

The revelation is coming on the heels of the marking of the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer Nigeria-based group - Communications for Development and Social Change (CDCS) in Lagos, where the group canvassed for the enforcement of the ban of refrigerators and other harmful practices. Ozone Day is celebrated every September 16, to mark the signature date, in 1987, of the Montreal Protocol, the significant environmental and health benefits that this amazing treaty has yielded. Read more...

OMAN

Oman- Sultanate to celebrate World Ozone Day today - (MENAFN - Muscat Daily) Oman will join the rest of the world in observing World Ozone Day on Sunday under the slogan 'Protection of our atmosphere is a service provided for future generations'.The day marks the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Montreal Protocol. This year's theme demonstrates the importance of efforts to prevent the depletion of the ozone layer and its aftermath.''Scientific facts have proved that chemicals, which are widely used in many industrial applications, lead to the destruction of the ozone layer, which protects the earth from harmful ultraviolet rays coming from the sun." Read more...

RUSSIAN FEDERATION

The 25-th celebration of Montreal Protocol and International Ozone Day 2012 were held in Moscow and St.-Petersburg. The event was supported by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment of the Russian Federation and the UNIDO office in Moscow. The most encouraging thing was the wide participation of children in the event. Further information is available at http://www.ozoneprogram.ru/ including a 5-minutes movie.

The Russian Federation also printed a catalogue of children's drawing competitions on the protection of the Ozone Layer. Click her to view booklet.

PAKISTAN

For the 25th Anniversary of the Montreal Protocol and Ozone Day Pakistan's Ozone Cell published a supplement in their local newspaper. View supplement

Ozone Layer Preservation Day today, 17 Sept 2012 - Islamabad—The United Nations’ (UN) International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer will be celeberated today (Sunday) September 16 to focus attention and action at the global, regional and national levels on the protection of the ozone layer. The year 2012 marks the 25th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. The theme for this year’s celebration “Protecting our atmosphere for generations to come” emphasises the extraordinary collaboration and environmental benefits achieved by the world’s governments through the operation of the Montreal Protocol. Read more...

PHILIPPINES

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Philippines is organizing a the following activities for International Ozone Day:

- Preparation of ozone day streamers/tarpaulin and distribution to the partner agencies
- Technical forum and press conference on the Montreal Protocol
- Youth forum for ozone layer protection
- Publication of a full page advertorial in a broadsheet
- TV and radio guests of DENR officials and industry representatives in the different regions of the countryRead more...

SAMOA

International Ozone day will be celebrated during the Environment Week in the 1st week of November 2012 (provisional dates, week 1: 4-8 November 2012).

The official day (to be decided) – Celebrating 25th Anniversary of the Montreal Protocol (MP) in Samoa – The theme will be confirmed later both English and Samoan.

There will be media coverage on TV1 Samoa’s Lali program and TV3 Samoa mo Taeao program and news coverage, radio interviews.Read more...

SERBIA

On the occasion of celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the Montreal Protocol and International Ozone Day 2012, the Minister of Energy, Development and Environmental Protection Ms. Zorana Mihajlovic met the school children that participated at the art contest organized by NGO Green Key from Nis, southern Serbia, within the “Ozone Zone” Project. Read more...

SEYCHELLES

Appeal for an ozone friendly generation - 24.09.2012 6 New trees now grace English River secondary school’s playground following a tree-planting activity held recently to mark the 25th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol and International Ozone Day. This was preceded by a donation of an ozone-friendly refrigerator by the Ministry of Environment and Energy -- represented by principal secretary Wills Agricole – to the school.

Also present for the activities was district administrators for English River and Anse Etoile, national ozone coordinator Inese Chang-Waye, representatives from the Division of Risk and Disaster Management, the school’s head teacher Marie-Claude Morel, other teachers and students.

The theme for this year’s International Ozone Day, celebrated on September 16, was protecting our Atmosphere for Generations to come and Mrs Morel said the reason English River School was chosen for the tree-planting activity is that its students are constantly exposed to ultra violet rays as there is barely any shade on the school grounds. Read more...

SRI LANKA

National Ozone Unit, Ministry of Environment in collaboration with the Ministry of Education has organized to conduct a poster competition island wide under the theme: Let us reduce the use of Hydrochlouroflourocarbons (HCFC) an Ozone Depleting Substance(ODS)”. The main objective of the competition are to create awareness among the general public as well as among the school children on the HPMP in Sri Lanka, and to obtain an active participation towards the collaborative efforts in protecting the life saving Ozone Layer by popularizing the use of more environmental friendly non HCFC alternatives. Read more...

ST LUCIA

Saint Lucia applauded for protecting Ozone Layer - The Government and people of Saint Lucia have been recognized for their efforts at protecting the ozone layer, as last Friday marked the 25th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer.

In accepting the award on behalf of the government, Agriculture Minister Moses Jn. Baptiste said government is committed to taking the necessary steps to eliminate the production and consumption of the group of chemicals that deplete the ozone layer. Read more...

ST VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES

In celebration of the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone layer or World Ozone Day 2012, the National Ozone Unit of St.Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) is proposing to host “An Ozone Fair’, under the 2012 theme: “Protecting our atmosphere for generations to come”. The main goal of the “Ozone fair’ is to highlight the achievements made by SVG under the Montreal Protocol. Read more...

SWAZILAND

UN lauds Government ove Ozone Layer - As part of the International Day of the preservation of the Ozone layer, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative Kabiru Nasidi presented the Swazi government with a plaque from the UN acknowledging the great strides the country has made in combating the depletion of the ozone layer.

The event, which was hosted by the Swaziland Environmental Authority last Friday at the George Hotel in Manzini, was in commemoration of the country’s signing of the Montreal Protocol on substances that deplete the ozone layer. Read more...

TIMOR LESTE

In celebration of Ozone Day, Timor Leste is launching the Decree Law on the Control of Export, Import and Use of Ozone Depleting Substances (Decree Law No. 36/2012. The Decree Law will allow Timor-Leste to control the importation of ozone-depleting substances or ODS and includes phasing out the importation, exportation and use of HCFCs through an import quota and licensing scheme. Next to South Sudan, Timor Leste is the youngest member of the Montreal Protocol family and this Decree Law is a huge accomplishment of the Montreal Protocol work in the country. Read more...

TURKEY

Statement by the Hon. Minister of Environment and Urbanization Erdoğan Bayraktar on the occasion of International Ozone Day and the 25th Anniversary of the Montreal Protocol: Read more...

Statement by UNIDO Programme Coordinator Murat Çevik (disseminated via UN Information Center in Turkey for the Ozone Day, based on the documentation of UNIDO HQ with a special addition of Turkey projects). Read more...

TURKMENISTAN

In preparation for the celebration of the 25th Anniversary of the Montreal Protocol at the Ministry of Nature Protection of Turkmenistan, a preliminary meeting was held on 7 September with the Heads of Departments. The meeting discussed the activities that would take place on September 16, 2012.

On 16 September, 2012 the Ozone Office of Turkmenistan held a meeting dedicated to the 25th Anniversary of the Montreal Protocol. The Ministry of Nature Protection of Turkmenistan came to congratulate the Deputy Minister. The meeting discussed the results achieved over the years, also plans for the future. On the Turkmenistan’s website an article was published in dedication to the 25th Anniversary of the Montreal Protocol.

The National Ozone Unit, Turkmenistan also produced a large banner for the event.

TUVALU

The Celebration of the 25th Anniversary of the Montreal Protocol falls on 16 September, 2012. However, Tuvalu will be celebrating this important day from 14-15 September 2012. The two days event would allow the National Ozone Unit and the Ozone National Awareness Committee to pass the message to government officials, students as well as the public. Read more...

UNITED ARAB EMIRATED

As part of its activities to celebrate 25th anniversary of Montreal Protocol on substances that deplete the Earth’s ozone layer, Awareness Section at DM Environment Department urged talented youths to participate in online video contest announced jointly by UN Ozone Secretariat and Ozone Action Program.

Hamdan Al Shaer, Director, Environment Department at DM said in a press statement that educating young generation on the seriousness of the ozone-depletion threat that mankind face is need of the hour. Read more...

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

USEPA - Administrator Lisa P. Jackson, Remarks on the Montreal Protocol 25th Anniversary, 19 September 2012 - Thank you very much. I’m glad to be here this morning, and proud to celebrate the success we’ve seen so far in 25 years under the Montreal Protocol.

Let me start by acknowledging a loss we felt earlier this week. As many of you know, former EPA Administrator Russell Train passed away on Monday. I was lucky enough to call Russell a friend, and he was certainly an example for me as administrator of this agency. Read more...

VIETNAM

To commemorate International Ozone Day and the 25th Anniversary of the Montreal Protocol, Vietnam's National Ozone Unit is organising the following events:

- Meeting with mass media to present the success of the Montreal Protocol and Country’s compliance with the MP ODS phase out obligations. 150 reporters and journalists have been invited. The event will be organized in the biggest city of the country – Ho Chi Minh City on 15 September.

- Posters of the 25 year of the Montreal Protocol provided by UNEP will be presented at the Office of MONRE, MOIT and Customs during 10 – 20 September.

- A documentary film on the ODS phase out and Ozone layer protection which contains interview of the MONRE Leader and Ozone Coordinator has been produced and will be broadcasted on 15 and 16 September on VOV and VTV1 TV channels.

- Special edition on the 25 years of the MP Ozone Newsletter has been prepared, 1500 copies will be printed and distributed by 5 September.

- Awareness kits with UNEP logo on 25 years of the MP are being printed and will be distributed during the course of celebrations events.

- A press release has been prepared and will be sent to the newspapers in early September.

ZAMBIA

Zambia makes progress in protecting ozone layer. MATTHIAS Banda, the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) national co-ordinator of the national ozone, is happy with the progress Zambia has made in protecting the ozone layer... At the time Zambia became party to the protocol 25 years ago, it has had a baseline consumption of over 22.2 metric tones ozone depleting substances (ODS), substantially made up of CFCs used in various applications including domestic, commercial and industrial refrigeration, including domestic, commercial and air conditioning, flexible and rigid insulation foam and in numerous other applications such as aerosol propellants and solvents. So, Mr. Banda says Zambia has every reason to celebrate with the world community on the occasion to mark the 25th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol on substances that deplete the ozone layer. Read more...

ZIMBABWE

Zim adheres to Montreal Protocol - The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources Management says the country has successfully phased out the use of some ozone depleting substances in line with the provisions of the Montreal Protocol on such substances. Zimbabwe will next week join the rest of the world in commemorating the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer.Read more...